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ARTICLE · 24 JUNE 2026

Australian Government Releases 2026 Public Sector Workplace Relations Policy

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The Australian Government released the 2026 Public Sector Workplace Relations Policy on 3 June 2026, setting parameters for enterprise bargaining across the Commonwealth public sector including APS and Non-APS agencies.

AustraliaEmployment and HR
Charles Power
Charles Power
Natasha Jones
Natasha Jones
Grace Sinclair
Grace Sinclair
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On 3 June 2026, the Australian Government released the much-anticipated Public Sector Workplace Relations Policy 2026 (2026 Policy), setting out the parameters for the next round of enterprise bargaining across the Commonwealth public sector. It also includes the parameters for common law arrangements for agencies that do not set terms of employment through enterprise bargaining, as well as the terms and conditions, including remuneration of, the Senior Executive Service (SES) and equivalent, not traditionally subject to enterprise agreements.

The 2026 Policy applies to Commonwealth public sector employers in respect of both Australian Public Service (APS) employees engaged under the Public Service Act 2009 (Cth) (PS Act) and other Commonwealth public sector employees employed under other legislation (Non-APS).

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This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.

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